SHS sophomore going to state leadership program

The Kiwanis Club of Shafter recently hosted representatives from the Hugh O'Brian Youth Leadership program at Shafter High School. Beatriz Ricketts, the SHS sophomore counselor, and students Mia Ortiz and Alejandro Andrade presented and explained the HOBY program.

HOBY is a nonprofit organization that aims to inspire youth to become leaders and serve their communities with dedication, passion and innovation. The program was founded in 1958 by American actor Hugh O'Brian, who believed in the potential of every human being and was committed to helping the youth of the world become major contributors to society. The HOBY program has spread to over 70 locations in all 50 states, and 19 countries.

Mia Ortiz, now a junior at the high school, was last year's school representative to the HOBY State Leadership Seminar held at California Lutheran University in Thousand Oaks. She shared her seminar experience with the Kiwanis Club members and said it taught her to recognize her leadership talents and learn ways to sharpen and apply those skills at home, school and in her community.

The program is specifically designed for second-year high school students; one student who shows leadership potential is chosen by the school administration to attend each year.

Alejandro Andrade is this year's SHS sophomore chosen to represent the school. The Kiwanis Club of Shafter is sponsoring Alejandro by covering the costs of attending the four-day HOBY State Leadership Seminar in June.